UPVC Window Handle ReplacementIt's easy to repair a damaged window handle with the right tools. It is important to identify the kind of handle you have as well as the size of its spindle before purchasing a
replacement upvc window handles.
Older uPVC windows feature cockspur handles for windows. They have spurs that protrude to lock over a cockspur wedge striker plate. These can be left- or right-handed and should match when replaced.
What kind of lock and handle do I have?
There are a variety of windows locks and handles made of upvc each with its own advantages and purposes. The kind of handle you choose will determine how easy it is to open your windows and if the locking mechanism functions as intended. As time passes, and with regular use the upvc handles that are on your windows could be damaged and worn out. This makes them less secure and effective. In some cases they may even fall completely off. It is important to repair the handles on your window made of upvc immediately if you begin to notice they are falling off. This will help to stop potential burglaries and ensure your home is secure.
It's an easy task that anyone can complete. You'll need a few tools, but with the proper knowledge, it's a straightforward process that should only take a couple of minutes. To get started, you will need to identify the type of handle and lock you have on your upvc window,
UPVC Window Handle Replacement which will help you identify the best replacement.
Inline Espagnolette Handles
They are typically located on the side of the window. They have a flat design and come with a latch that engages with the locking mechanism of the frame of the window when it is turned. Inline upvc handles also come with a spindle that runs through the middle of the handle and into the frame of the window to operate the latch.
Cockspur Handles
These handles are typically located on older uPVC windows and have distinct hook-shaped designs. Cockspur handles have one screw that secures the handle to the frame and are not as secure as other kinds of window handles.
Handles that can tilt and turn
The tilt and turn handles differ from other upvc handles because they can be turned to open the window and then lowered into the window to allow air circulation. They feature a 7mm spindle at the back and are available in left and right-handed versions.
It is important to measure the size of the spindle when purchasing a new upvc handles. Not all of them are exactly the same size. To test the length of your upvc handle simply drop something into the middle of the hole, and then measure how far it extends before it reaches an obstruction. This is the longest spindle length that will fit your window.
What is the spindle?
uPVC window handles operate similarly to doors. By turning the handle, you can operate a latch within the frame. The window is then opened and shut. The handles can become damaged, especially if they're often used or are exposed to harsh environments. This can leave you needing to replace your uPVC windows handles as they might not be able to operate the window in a proper manner anymore.
There are many different types of uPVC handles,
UPVC Window Handle Replacement including Espag, Cockspur, and Spaded handles. They are designed to fit into the uPVC frames in different ways and each handle type has a particular spindle that is used to secure the mechanism to the window. It is essential to determine the type of handle you have installed on your uPVC windows so that you can replace it with the correct one.
You can determine the type of uPVC handle you are using by taking a look at the base of the handle. There should be a "snap-in cover' over one screw that holds the handle base in the correct position. When you remove this cover and you'll be able to observe the second screw that holds the base of the handle in position. Once both screws have been removed and you are able to remove the handle from the uPVC.
After you have removed the uPVC window handle, you have to carefully remove the spindle that was previously attached to the locking mechanism. Be sure to note the length of the spindle as you'll need to make sure that you buy a
replacement windows near me that has the same length as the original handle and locking mechanism.
The spindle wears down and is unable to operate the locking mechanism. This can be caused by corrosion, damage from constant use or the locking mechanism becoming looser. If this happens, it is necessary to replace the window handle as well as the locking mechanism to restore full functionality to your uPVC windows.
How do I remove the old handle?
Over time and through everyday usage, window handles could become damaged or broken and if this happens, it is crucial to repair them as soon as possible to ensure the security of your home. The good news is that replacing a damaged or worn handle is a fairly simple task that can be accomplished in less than a minute and doesn't require any specialized tools.
The first step to remove the old handle is to remove the screw that is situated at the top of the handle base. Once the screw is removed, the handle can be removed. Another screw will be located at the bottom of the handle. This too can be removed. After these two screws are removed, the handle can be detached from the window's base.
After removing the old handle, align the fixing holes of the new handle with the holes already present in the window frame. If there is a cap or sticker on the new handle remove it if needed and put the handle back in the appropriate position. It is important to check that the handle works once it is put in place. Turn the handle and make sure that the lock mechanism is in place.
Espag handles come with spindles that extend from the handle and slots into the multipoint locking mechanism on the frame of the window. Cadenza windows come with an edge with cut-outs which slot into the lock mechanism while Cockspur handles have an extended nose that hangs over the frame's outer or transom bar cross member inside the window.
After you have put in the new handle, place the spindle into the window lock and tighten it. Replace the snap-in cover and screw cap (if applicable) after the handle has been firmly fixed. Once the handle is ready for use, you can open and close the window a few times to make sure that it functions correctly and securely.
How do I install the new handle?
It's not that difficult to change the handle on your windows made of uPVC. The process is simple. All you need is a screwdriver, and a little bit of patience. First, make sure that the handle that you are replacing is unlocked. Then, remove any screws that are visible. You could also replace them with screw caps. After removing the handle, you'll need to record the length of the spindle which extends from the back. This is vital as it will determine what kind of handle you will need to buy.
Espagnolette handles are the most popular kind of handle that is used on uPVC windows. They feature a spindle that is connected to the handle, and is responsible for a locking mechanism inside the frame of the window. The handle releases the latch, allowing the window to open. When used regularly and over time, espagnolette handles may be damaged.
Cadenza handles are a form of uPVC handle that is commonly used with tilt and turn windows. They have a protruding blade that operates the multipoint locking mechanism inside the window. They are generally more secure than handles made of espagnolette because they are only accessible from the inside. They can be replaced using the same procedure as espagnolette handles, however you should make sure that the new handle has a curved blade as opposed to one that is flat.
Once you have selected the correct handle, you can align the new handle to existing screw holes prior to screwing it in place.